Benoit, Magness, Lager, Bel Airs & PWF

Multiple-award winner Janiva Magness is a don’t-miss artist. She brings her powerhouse blues and soul to The 21st Saloon this Thursday, July 28, at 5:30 p.m.

“What Should We Do? Run?”

Kris Lager Band’s van caught fire while driving home from South Dakota to make their Red Sky gig on Saturday, July 23.

Lager says his first thoughts were “What should we do? Run?”

While Lager and John Fairchild moved equipment and their trailer, bandmates Jeremiah Weir and Brandon Miller got the fire out with water bottles and a blanket . No one was injured. Miller’s family helped the band get to their Red Sky gig. They enthusiastically rocked the small crowd for a good 90 minutes despite the heat and the day’s bad luck, with the usually mellow Lager joking onstage about his reaction. Next time you see the group, buy a CD or a T-Shirt. Every little bit will help get their touring vehicle fixed.

In happier news, Lager may start writing lullabies. Congratulations to Lager and girlfriend Gina Blobaum who became proud parents of a beautiful baby girl named Journey on July 18.

The Lager band and bassist Brandon Miller are behind the Hullabaloo Music & Camping Festival on Aug. 5, 6 and 7 at River West Park, 233 & Maple. Check hullabaloomusicfestival.com.

Playing With Fire Needs You

This year’s sole Playing With Fire concert with Sharon Jones got the attention of fans outside the blues. Even rock colleague Tim McMahan jumped on the PWF bandwagon, writing several times about the event including a post-show commentary in
last week’s Lazy-i column.

Though the heat cut down attendance it was an amazing night of soulful music. Founder Jeff Davis and the PWF team hope the event continues in 2012, but that is contingent on finding significant financial sponsorship. Visit PlayingWithFireOmaha.net to see how to help.

Hot Notes

Also check last week’s Lazy-i for a wrap up of the first ever Omaha Girls Rock camp for budding teen musicians.

The Bel Airs are on tap for the 21st Saloon next Thursday, Aug. 4, at 5:30 p.m. The Bel Airs also play Lincoln’s Zoo Bar on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 6-9 p.m.